D-2452 DG's Newsletter November 2022

District 2452 Issue #5 November 2022 Sneak Peek Into Rotaract’s World RYLA 2022: A Massive Success! Lebanon Nominated for Interota 2026 ! DG George “The Rotary Foundation” Azar Visits Armenia By Grants District Chair PP Ahmad Husseini Charter Night Zahlé Capitol Zone 21 Institute-Limassol Blind-Folded Dinner in Bahrain1?

Index Video You may click on the link below to check the index video https://youtu.be/3U0g7RvmHbI So you can stay up to date with our District News, don’t forget to subscribe to our District’s Youtube Channel! 2

Presidential Message Jennifer Jones RI President 2022-23 November 2022 Being asked to Imagine Rotary can seem like a big, heady exercise, but the most important Jennifer Jones element of it is something quite small, even personal. Not too long ago, Rotary members were the year, I’m going to share with you the expected to perform our acts of service sights and the stories that made those tours quietly. I understood and appreciated the meaningful for us. thought behind that — humility is a I hope you can do the same in your corner wonderful trait, and we should continue to of Rotary. It can be something you share in nurture it in other ways. meetings or on social media. For the most But keeping Rotary to ourselves has a cost. savvy and ambitious, it could be an event and by sharing our Rotary moments, we you publicize with local media. Even sharing are being generous with others and your stories with friends has impact. giving them an opportunity to understand We need ambassadors for Rotary’s message the impact of Rotary. and our dreams for a better world. The best It brings to mind that wonderful aphorism: ambassadors are you. The more you share “People will forget what you said. People stories — and share them from the heart will forget what you did. But people will — the more you encourage others to never forget how you made them feel.” partner with us, to join us, and to stay. So how do we make people feel Rotary? The To give you just one small example, in the best way is to share our Rotary moments. months ahead, I will be turning over this We have all had them — when the ordinary column to Rotary members who will share collides with intention to create something their personal stories as they relate to extraordinary. diversity, equity, and inclusion in our Some people have those Rotary moments organization. It’s important that we hear the first time they go to a meeting. For these stories directly from the people who others, it can take years, before seeing the experienced them as a way of feeling the joy in the eyes of someone we serve. Or importance of DEI for the future of Rotary. perhaps in hearing from another member In everything we do, what people feel about something that hit close to home. Rotary will shape our future. I can only As Nick and I share this journey, we are imagine what you will inspire through the amazed at the work you are performing and stories you’ll tell. the lives that are transforming. Throughout 3

Trustee Chair’s Message Ian H.S. Riseley Trustee Chair 2022-23 November 2022 Ian H.S. Riseley Many of you will recall my challenge to Rotary clubs when I was RI president in 2017-18: to plant one tree per member to help the environment. Thanks to you, we estimate over 4 million trees went into the ground in Rotary’s name — quite a forest indeed. This month, as we celebrate The Rotary Foundation, let’s remember that each Foundation project is much like planting a tree. With each sapling of hope, health, and peace we plant through the Foundation, we make an investment in the future that will one day grow into something even greater. Such a tree was planted by Rotary in Sri Lanka, where more than 2,000 children born annually with a congenital heart defect can now get a corrective surgery that allows them to survive to adulthood. Local Rotarians identified the need to make the surgery more available and effective, and rallied 17 Rotary districts around the world to contribute District Designated Funds. After the Foundation gifts to the Foundation go to programs and matched those funds, a total global grant of operations. Not only are we efficient stewards, $365,000 was used to create the first human but Rotary’s requirement of a community- heart-valve tissue bank in Sri Lanka, with the needs assessment for global grants helps government providing the building, staffing, ensure the sustainability of our projects over and supplies to ensure its sustainability. the long term. And the Foundation is a charity Visiting this life-saving facility in 2017 was an you can trust because it is run by your fellow unforgettable experience for me. But I have Rotarians. seen countless other great “trees” planted However, only about 38 percent of members across our seven areas of focus. We planted actively support our own organization’s great PolioPlus in 1985 and it has grown into one of charity. We can and should do better. Just as I the greatest public health initiatives in history, challenged you to plant trees as president, as helping reduce cases of wild poliovirus by 99.9 Foundation trustee chair I would like to percent. Seven Rotary Peace Centers around challenge each club to make a giving plan for the world have also taken root and are now our Rotary Foundation this year. bearing fruit as scores of peacebuilders and community leaders go forth with the skills to Imagine our impact — Rotary’s great forest of make the world more safe and secure. hope and peace that will flourish — and Charity Navigator, an independent agency, has please give today. given The Rotary Foundation its highest ranking for more than a decade. Why? Our overhead expense level is much lower than most similar organizations — 91 percent of 4

District Governor’s Message George Azar District 2452 Governor 2022-2023 November’s Message “Imagine, a world that deserves our best where we get up each day knowing that we can make a difference.” District Governor November has been designated as the Rotary Foundation Month, which is a perfect time to learn more about the excellent work our George Azar Foundation carries out through the year. The mission of the Rotary Foundation is to enable Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education and the alleviation of poverty. As the charitable arm of Rotary International, So let us make a contribution today, as we the Rotary Foundation is the engine that celebrate the month of the Foundation to bring powers so many Rotary projects throughout the hope to the world by doing more. world. Now is the time to make a positive difference Through our Foundation, Rotary members have that will last for years. supported thousands of projects to provide The Elevate Rotaract initiative, shifted things, clean water, fight disease, promote peace, specifically since the Rotary Year 2019-2020; our provide basic education, and grow local clubs have been eager to do more, to economies. We’ve also been a leader in the fight accomplish more and to serve through to eradicate polio worldwide. fellowship more. In 1917 Rotary International President Arch C. So, let us continue with this important legacy, Klumph proposed the establishment of an on daily basis, and imagine what Rotary can do. endowment fund, the Forerunner of the Rotary As RI President-elect Jennifer Jones said: Foundation. “Imagine, a world that deserves our best where The magic of The Rotary Foundation is the we get up each day knowing that we can make caring and generosity of Rotarians that enable a difference.” it to thrive and carry out its programs for the benefit of all of us. 5

The “Rotary Foundation” By Grants District Chair Ahmad Husseini District Grants Committee Chair 22-23 Doing Good in the World District 2452 Conference Chair 22-23 HIS NAME WAS ARCH KLUMPH AND HE HAD A DREAM! Assistant Rotary Coordinator Zone 21B, 21-23 All started with a Vision at the 1917 Convention in Atlanta when RI 6th President Arch C. Klumph proposed to set up an endowment Rotary Foundation Cadre “for the purpose of doing good in the world”. of Technical Advisers, 20-23 An initial contribution of 26.5$ from Rotary Club of Kansas City, Missouri, USA set in motion a powerful force that transformed Ahmad Husseini millions of lives around the globe to more than 4 Billions on Projects. My friends, THE ROTARY FOUNDATION CHANGES LIFE! • When The Rotary Foundation funds a heart We’re grateful that we can keep strengthening surgery for a child, it gives him life and changes communities by improving people’s health, his parent’s life. supporting quality education, protecting the • When The Rotary Foundation funds a water environment, and alleviating poverty. Together, filtration system in public schools, it changes life we can continue to accomplish great things, like of students, parents, and teachers. one day ending Polio. • When The Rotary Foundation Funds COVID related projects in our District, it changes the life Your donations make it possible for Rotary of more than 6,000,000 inhabitants. members around the world to continue this • When The Rotary Foundation Equips the life-changing work. Hospitals of Beirut after the devastating explosion, Thank you for giving to The Rotary It Changes the life of the whole city of Beirut. Foundation! At the end, I would like to invite you to save the My friends, date for our District Foundation Seminar that will YOUR GENEROSITY HELPED US RAISE MORE take place in Beirut on December 11th 2022. THAN $434 MILLION! Because of your support and your dedication to Sincerely, Doing Good in the World, we funded more than Ahmad Husseini 1,190 Global Grants, 470 District Grants, and 225 Disaster Response Grants in 2021-22. 6

DISTRICT GOVERNOR GEORGE AZAR VISITS ARMENIA 1- DISTRICT GOVERNOR GEORGE AZAR VISITS ARMENIA District 2452 and District Trainer PDG Jamil Mouawad started their official visits in Armenia on Thursday 29th September 2022. They visited the Rotary Clubs of Yerevan Cosmopolitan, Yerevan Ararat, Yerevan International, and Yerevan Generation, and pinned new members. There were interesting deliberations and suggestions of how to help the clubs to become even more vibrant. They also visited the cancer hospital where RC Yerevan Cosmopolitan donated patients’ beds to the hospital. The visits were followed by a dinner at PP Avedis Karagulian’s place. On Friday September 30 2022, a celebration dinner was held with the six Rotary clubs in Yerevan. After the dinner, flags were exchanged along with a pinning of this year’s Rotary International theme: Imagine Rotary, by DG George Azar, District Trainer PDG Jamil Mouawad & Immediate Past District Governor Ashot Karapetyan. 7

DISTRICT GOVERNOR GEORGE AZAR VISITS ARMENIA District Governor George Azar and District Trainer, Past District Governor, Jamil Mouawad visited three projects that the Rotary Clubs in Armenia contributed to their implementation, along with Immediate Past District Governor Ashot Karapetyan and Deputy District Governor Samvel Tiraturyan. This was followed by the Official Visit to Rotary Club Gyumri, with flag exchange and pinning. On Friday 30th September 2022, District Governor George Azar & District Trainer PDG Jamil Mouawad continued their official visits. There was a joint meeting with RC Yerevan and RC Yerevan Panarmenian in Mariot Hotel, where 2 members were pinned with Paul Harris. A Training szssion was done for all Armenian Rotary clubs at Ani Plaza Hotel, on Friday 30th September 2022 District Governor George Azar and District Trainer Past District Governor Jamil Mouawad, continue their official visit to Armenia. On their second day, on Friday 30th September 2022, they visited the recreational park where Rotary Club of Yerevan, the first Rotary Club in Armenia, have the “Pillars of Peace;“ and they planted a tree for their Club’s 25th Anniversay. 8

SNEAK PEAK INTO ROTARACT’S WORLD RYLA 2022 By PP Victoria Cherfane 1-The Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is a leadership Victoria Cherfane program coordinated by Rotary Clubs around the globe. Thousands of young people are chosen to participate in this highly selective program each year. Young people ages 18–30 are sponsored by Rotary Clubs to attend the event run by the club’s district committee, the participants are selected for their leadership potential. This year’s District RYLA gathered more than and uncertainty into a prosperous gateway. 100 youth participants from the District. The This year’s focus inspired the program’s theme: event took take place at Ehden Country Club in “Back to the future” and the sessions and Lebanon from the 18th to the 20th of activities were focused on Leadership, mental November 2022. health and also on futuristic technologies and actualities like artificial intelligence, augmented Through this program, we aimed to provide the reality, cryptocurrency, and robotics. participants with a mindset that enables them to overcome and transform today’s challenges RYLA 2022 was a huge success! 9

SNEAK PEAK INTO ROTARACT’S WORLD 3-Lebanon to Host Interota in 2026? We are happy to share that Lebanon has applied to host Interota 2026 in Beirut! What is Interota?? Interota is a triennial worldwide Rotaract meeting organized by Rotaractors and hosted on a rotating basis in different cities every 3 years. First held in Johannesburg, South Africa in 1981, Interota has been subsequently held in a number of countries, including Australia, UK, Turkey, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, South Korea, Egypt, Canada and this year in Tunisia. Interota is the only international Rotaract conference recognized by the Board of Rotary International. Rotary International supports Interota by approving its program content and ensuring that RI leadership is represented at the event. The Lebanese Rotaract Clubs have come Anhal Kozhaya – Rotaract Club of Beirut Cedars together with a shared target to host the Taline Hamze - Rotaract Club of Beirut Cedars biggest Rotaract event in our beautiful Maya Awar- Rotaract Club of Aley Lebanon. The Lebanese Rotaractors have set Mira Amouri - Rotaract Club of Aley “Bridging culture” as the slogan of Interota Michel Berbara – Rotaract Club of Batroun Lebanon 2026 aligned with the role Lebanon Jad Salame- Rotaract Club of Sahel Metn has been playing throughout history as a place Emil Moawad - Rotaract Club of Sahel Metn of cultural diversity, understanding and a Finally, we invite all Rotarians and Rotaractors crossroad between Asia, Europe, and Africa. to support Interota Lebanon 2026 Candidature The Lebanese Rotaractors are aiming to host by following the campaign official page through more than 500 Rotaractors from around the this link: world to prove that Lebanon; through the little https://instagram.com/interota2026. lives big in our hearts, definitely will leave such lb?igshid=ZmRlMzRkMDU= an impact on the people who visit it as well. - You can review Interota Here we would like to salute the team of Rotaractors Lebanon 2026 application via the who are working to bring Interota to Lebanon: following QR Code: Elissar Ezzedine – Rotaract Club of Aley 10

SNEAK PEAK INTO ROTARACT’S WORLD 4- Fundraising by RTC Aley – Lebanon On November 26, 2022, Rotaract Club of Aley organized a fundraiser with “3a Ka3ba”, “ A laugh for a cause” a fully improvised show by Fouad Yammine, Jad Bou Karam, Anthony Halawi and Tony Dagher who are renowned Lebanese comedians. This event successfuly hosted 85 attendees from all over Lebanon. The show went on for an hour and ten minutes, it tackled many types of improvised jokes and included some of the audience on stage. This fundraiser will be the main reason Rotaract Aley can help the underprivileged stay worm during the winter by providing blankets and other amenities to help families during the cold weather. 11

PDG Christina Zone 21 B Covotsou-Patroclou Institute-Limassol The 2022 Zone 21 Rotary Institute took place in Limassol, Cyprus during the first half of November. Feedback received describe the event as a great success. This was the first time that Cyprus Rotary had the opportunity to host such a prestigious and high calibre Rotary International event. Specifically, over 340 delegates from 41 countries in the presence of Rotary International President Jennifer Jones, director Patrick Chisanga, TRF Trustee Geeta Manek, Convener PRID Katerina Kotsali-Papademetriou, together with Regional, District and club dignitaries, from 41 European and Middle Eastern countries and Africa, and the USA were in Cyprus between November 7-13. In the first part of the Institute broader business discussions and networking, exchange of ideas Training Leaders RIDN/RC Daniele Tanase, PDG and information about the developments, Yesim Yoney and PDG/RRFC Christina Covotsou initiatives, and priorities of Rotary International. Patroclou together with their team of Regional On the final day of the Institute all the delegates leaders successfully led the mandatory training led by Cypriot Rotarians visited an area devasted for Governors Elect as well as the Governor by summer bush fires and each district in the Nominee Training. Zone planted its own Olive tree as a simple and The TRF and Regional update seminars that of Peace and understanding and of Regeneration followed tackled updates and reviews from the Rotary world and from across the Zone. The Institute itself addressed critical and current issues drawn from our areas of focus such as Disease Prevention, Basic Education and Environment. The Presidential institutive Girls Empowerment, and Rotary’s focus on Diversity, Equity, Social Inclusion drew particular attention while the importance of Partnership Development brought forward interesting private and other initiatives. At the same time, the participants had the opportunity for 12

nature. Quoting President Jennifer Jones “Many of the countries participating are from conflict areas and it punctuates so profoundly how Rotary members build world peace through understanding”. “Planting trees of Peace in Cyprus! People of Action from more than 40 Countries linking arms and planting trees of Hope”. The delegates enjoyed great fellowship in the 2 major dinners at the Institute with fine dining and entertainment. The Major Donor and Bequest society dinner held by the Rotary Foundation in the framework of the Institute brought together the unprecedented number of 108 major donors making this the greatest gathering of the past 5 years. The Organizing committee, chaired by PDG/RRFC Christina Covotsou-Patroclou wishes to extend appreciations to all the delegates who graced us with their presence and in particular to thank President of Rotary International Jennifer Jones for endorsing the choice of Limassol for this prestigious event. Appreciations are extended to the Co-Conveners RID Patrick Chisanga and PRID Katerina Kotsali-Papademetriou for the endless and valuable support. Finally the success of the institute would not have been possible without the support of the sponsors. 13

Zone 21 B Institute-Limassol Hala Ghousoub Assistant Rotary Coordinator As a Rotaractor, an Assistant Rotary Coordinator and very recently a Rotarian (dual member), I was very happy & proud to participate in a Zone institute taking place in our District.  After attending the multi zone Institute in Prague last year & this year’s institute in Limassol, I can simply say that: REGIONAL EVENTS ARE NOT TO BE MISSED!  These events are a chance to enhance our involvement within the Rotary family, meet Leaders from our Zone (and beyond), get introduced to their projects & achievements, learn from their success stories, connect with them, build for future partnerships… and much more I had the chance to take part in a panel moderated by Past RI Director Katerina Kotsali-Papadimitriou and with 3 other Rotarians (from Egypt, Cyprus & Austria) we discussed the topic of: Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. Other Rotaractors as well were panelists and shared their experience regarding different topics. Moreover 1 panel was fully dedicated to Rotaract and was led by our Past DRR Emil Moawad having our DRR Maggie Poposka as 1 of the 4 panelists. For ourselves, Rotaractors who attended the Institute, an additional major highlight was meeting Rotary International leaders and getting the chance to connect with them and most importantly to be inspired by them. Last but not least, a big thank you to PDG Christina Covotsou- Patroclou and the Cyprus team for putting so much efforts for making this event a memorable and enriching one to all of us. 14

District 2452 in action Community service projects- Bahrain Women Win Talks The rotary club of Adliya managed a Womens Talk corner during the fundraiser event of the women’s championship, organized by the rotary club of Seef Bahrain during the month of October, coinciding, women’s cancer awareness theme. The women’s talk was designed as a Majlis chat, whereby role models from the community were invited to talk and present their journeys and experiences in various topics, where they excelled and championed their own success in different walks of life. The event covered six topics which were winning with work life balance, winning with purpose, winning with art and beauty, winning with empowering other women, winning with creating safe nature spaces, and winning with cancer. The vent was attended by approximately 90 participants at he Najma Club on Friday, the 28th of October. DINE IN THE DARK- EMPATHY DINNER FOR THE BLIND The Rotary Club of Adliya led a joint initiative between the Rotary Clubs of Bahrain, aiming at raising funds for the benefit of the blind and visually impaired community in Bahrain. The event comprised of an experiential empathy dinner whereby guests were blindfolded while having a three-course meal. The event took place at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Bahrain and was attended by 114 guests, of which seven tables, respond by corporates. It was an extremely impactful evening since many of the attendees expressed their understanding of the challenges that the blind and visually impaired go through which made them more grateful and created a higher desire for support and giving back. 15

District 2452 in action SENSORY GARDEN PARTIALLY SPONSORED BY RC SALMANIYA SEES THE LIGHT The Rotary Club of Salmaniya were invited to attend the opening ceremony of the Alia Rehabilitation Center on Sunday 16th of October 2022 under the patronage of His Excellency Lieutenant General Doctor Sheikh Mohamed Bin Abdullah Al-Khalifa Chairman of the Supreme Council of Health. The Rotary Club of Salmaniya contributed towards the creation of the sensory garden. The Club is proud of this unique project which is already in use by the beneficiaries of the center. The sensory garden was designed by Reem Yateem the founder of “Learn to Grow” a Holistic Permaculture learning center. It’s designed to encourage positive engagement with the five senses in autistic youths. The club members helped with the installation of the garden. RC Salmaniya – Bahrain Rotary Club of Salmaniya donated a carpentry round saw, safety glasses and safety gloves for the carpentry unit at the Vocational Rehabilitation Center. 16

District 2452 in action Community Service Projects-Lebanon Solar Energy System in “Saida Municipal Fire Center “ by Rotary Club of Saida Rotary Club Saida inaugurated on Saturday November 26 the project of equipping “Saida Municipal Fire Center” with a solar energy system, which was implemented by the club in cooperation with CG Fund Lebanon Association, in the presence of Mayor President Mohamed Saoudi, President of the Center Engineer Ziad Hakawati , RC Saida President Hisham El Assaad with club members and Me. Maya Majzoub , representative of CG Fund Association. Community Service Project-ARMENIA Supporting Inclusivity of Children with Disabilities It has been a bunch of decade long are currently in progress: an inclusive endeavors to support children with playground and a greenhouse. The disabilities (CWD) and promote their inclusive supporting international partner clubs are education. This year is not an exception. We RC Moscow International, Russia D2223, RC are proudly reporting that two projects are in Hamar Vest, Norway D2305 respectively. progress to help about 140 school age Please, stay tuned to see the fully operating children with mental disabilities gradually playground and greenhouse in a couple of become more and more inclusive, obtaining months life and vocational skills that prepare them for independent adulthood. To do so, RC Yerevan has developed effective collaboration with a daycare center in Spitak/ Armenia to help the community of CWDs and their parents to live full fledged lives. It is thanks to our Rotary family, two projects 17

District 2452 in action Cyprus: RCs of Nicosia Ledra and Nicosia Aspelia plant Citrus Trees&Raise Awareness on Rotary The Pollinator/Environmental Task Force of On 14/11/2022 at the grounds of the Junior Rotary Cyprus is very happy to announce that school in Nicosia during a very special event, the awareness campaign on Pollination and in the presence of more than 60 students, Biodiversity and the planting of pollina- the polinator Task Force team and the RCs of tor-friendly trees and plants that started last Nicosia Ledra and Nicosia Aspelia planted year with the 1st Pollinator park in Aglandjia, citrus trees and placed a Rotary plague in the continue with school presentations, the ‘Forestry School’ area next to ESOBGA. planting of 150 citrus trees at schools and During both events, Rotarians spoke to the the donation of 350 citrus trees to the villag- students about Rotary, our goals, our work es that suffered by last year’s fires. and our commitment to the communities On 23rd October 2022 during the “Rotary locally and internationally and explain how Pollinator - Family Day” at Iamatiki school in they can join Rotary from the age of 12. Eptagonia village, the gardens of which were burned by last year’s fires, we had fun whilst planting and learning about the importance of solitary bees and pollination. On 8/11/2022 the Task Force Team and the RCs of Nicosia Ledra and Nicosia Aspelia planted Citrus trees and placed a Rotary Plague commemorating the planting at the entrance of the school. 18

District 2452 in action Community Service Project - GEORGIA A Day Well Spent at the Odzisi Public school By Rotary&Rotaract Clubs Tbilisi Ambassador Rotary Club Tbilisi Ambassador, Chartered and III grades of the school. 2017 conducted a special day to conclude the The members of the “Provisional Rotaract activities for Basic Education and Literacy club Tbilisi Ambassador” held actions in their Month of September in Odzisi, a very schools in September, within the framework important region of Georgia. The Occupation of which they collected books and contributed by Russia is tragically separating people who them to the school library in Odzisi. used to live together in these beautiful region. As for high school students training the club On 31st October, 2022 was a very emotional conducted professional orientation and and good day for the members of “Rotary Club career day. Tbilisi Ambassador”. The club members visited President Arun Khatri, Honorary Secretary PP the students, teachers and parents of the Iveta Chelishvili, Rotarians Asem Akour, Odzisi Public school and congratulated them Gvantsa Popkhadze, Mao Modzmanashvili, on the start of the 2022-2023 school year. The and Stella Bo were present with the club had special clown show and a fun organization of Rotarian Natalia Okruashvili program, both children and adults performed and the support of other club members PP funny tasks and tricks with great enthusiasm. Bashar Asfour, PP Giga Murtskhvaladze, PP The Club contributed warm coats, sports Giørgi Khatiashvili and Rotaractors Keta equipment and stationery to students of I, II Baiadze, Liza Kiladze and Guests. 19

District 2452 in action RC of Gyumri & Sidney Sunrise Equip a Dental Clinic On November 03-05, President John close cooperation of the two clubs, as well as D’Orsay(RC Sidney Sunset), Louise MacLeod, 6 American and 11 Canadian clubs, D2452, D7820 ПДГ Ian Doyle and his wife Anne D7820, D5230 districts, David Gibson-Moore , were in Gyumri. They came to Armenia to thanks to funding from The Rotary participate in the opening of the new Foundation, as well as co-financing from the building of the Gyumri Children’s Dental Howard Karagheusian Commemorative Corp. Hospital of the Howard Karagyozyan Medical 4 dental chairs, a mobile x-ray machine, 2 Charity Foundation. Let me remind you that autoclaves for anti-clogging of instruments, the Gyumri and Sidney Sunrise clubs are and other latest devices and equipment were implementing the GG2121831 global grant donated to the dental clinic. program to provide $103,000 worth of new On November 4, Gyumri was visited by a equipment to that dental clinic, the group of American Rotarians led by Vitaly presentation of which was held on the day Bezrodnu. The group met with the members of the opening of the building. The dental of the club board, got acquainted with the clinic in Gyumri started operating in 1995. implemented programs and new plans. A Since then, in a non-specialized, adapted tour at Gyumri was organized for the group area for that purpose, and during its activity, and at the end of the visit, the group it has served about 65 thousand children of participated with Canadian Rotarians in the Gyumri City and surrounding villages free of concert of the students of the “Zhan and charge and with high quality. This year, the Albert Poghosyan” art school of the “Robert foundation built a new, very comfortable Boghosyan and Sons Foundation”. After the and beautiful building where in addition to concert, the director of the foundation: Ms. dental services, speech therapy, Karine Nersisyan, elected president of the ophthalmology and other social services will Gyumri Rotary Club for 2023-24, introduced be provided. However, the funds of the grant the school about the plans, successes, the were not enough to purchase new dental plan to organize a concert tour in the USA equipment, so the Gyumri club initiated the for the exchange program of the best program to purchase the latest equipment, students was discussed. which was successfully implemented with the 20

Charter Night District Governor George Azar Patronizes the Launching Ceremony of the Rotary Club Zahle Capitol On November 20, 2022, Zahle and the Bekaa Rotary Region 2452 Samar Saab, Assistant witnessed the largest ceremony to launch Governor Mona Qutb, past district governor the Rotary Club of Zahle Capitol in the Kadri Governor Michel Jazzar, and a crowd of Grand Hotel, Zahle. A crowd of officials and former deputy governors, presidents of Rotarians participated in the launching Hammana, Aley, Keserwan, Chtaura, Bekaa ceremony of the club, headed by: His Gate, Tripoli clubs, representatives of Sidon, Excellency Bishop Joseph Moawad, the Most Tire, Beirut Liberty, Beirut Cider, Zahle, Aley Respected, Bishop Ananya Kodjanian, His and West clubs, in addition to the heads of Excellency the former President Elie Ferzli, clubs and civil society organizations in Zahle His Excellency the Minister Industry and the Bekaa. Representative George Boushkian, The most important speech of the club Representatives Salim Aoun, George Okis, president, Tony Abou Naoum, was: Elias Estephan, Mayor of municipality zahle All work starts from the group and returns to Asaad Zogheib. District Governor George it. Teamwork is based on solidarity, Azar, Director General of the Ministry of cooperation and solidarity. From the Agriculture Engineer Louis Lahoud, Director collective spirit, successful activities emerge General in Parliament Christine Zaatar and complete the vibrant life cycle in any Maalouf, Judge Elie Maalouf, Deputy club or association. Governor Jawad Moawad, Secretary of the 21

Charter Night The Rotary was the pioneer in moving the introduced the District Governor George wheel of life within the congregation based Azar, who in turn suspended the on the principle of service above oneself and membership button for the twenty new the principle of rotation in the presidency. members after calling them by colleague On the one hand, the Rotary does not work Badi’ al-Haj Shaheen. In the words of the for its own interest, but always sets its sights governor: on the other and society with all its He urged everyone to enjoy fellowship, components. In terms of rotation in the because it is one of the great privileges of presidency, the global Rotary system, which Rotary and the mutual trust it inspires, and provides for annual rotation in the subject of called on them to serve their entire the presidency, guarantees the renewal of community with sincerity and dedication. He blood in the veins and gives a new impetus also referred to the role that Rotary plays in from its results of creativity, innovation and its surroundings, conveying to the new club renewal. a message full of confidence, calling on them As for the club’s secretary, Nancy Zalaqet, to work together to provide the best. 22

Initiatives You Can Take Part of Arztak Hawiyytak Rotary Club Beirut Cadmos initiated ‘Arztak Hawytak’ as your cedar is your identity. Our project’s name perfectly correlates with its core mission: taking pride in our Lebanese roots.   Our goal is to afforest 10452 cedar trees in Ehden, North Governorate. This project will directly impact Lebanon’s environment and it will improve the quality of life of all humans and wildlife in the surrounding areas.  Our vision can only be accomplished with the support of our fellow Rotarians and friends of Rotary from all over the world through a fundraising campaign that amounts to $30 per tree while promoting Lebanon’s environmental sustainability by bringing a breath of hope and fresh air.   Adopt a cedar tree via www.sustainlebanon.com Let’s plant a seed of hope. The adoption link: https://sustainlebanon.com/donate/project/arztak-hawytak  Facebook URL: https://www.facebook.com/arztakhawytak/ Linkedin URL: https://www.linkedin.com/company/87221467/admin/?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_ flagship3_feed%3BFIUVcmO1SBiaxr3T0dsJYA%3D%3D Instagram URL: https://www.instagram.com/arztakhawytak/ Twitter URL: https://twitter.com/arztakhawytak 23

Initiatives You Can Take Part of Multi-District Cultural Exchange Project Taste of the World By P Mohammad El Haddad Brief: A recipe exchange between 9 Modusi VET College countries in district 2452 & 2451 Palestine: Rotary Club of Ramallah covering 3 continents. One club from each Jordan: Rotary Club of Amman Jerash country is participating with their Cyprus: Rotary Club of Nicosia & Rotaract traditional recipe. The recipes will be Club of Nicosia randomly assigned Egypt: Rotary Club of Alexandria Nozha between the clubs. Clubs will support local farmers by purchasing their ingredients locally. Cook together in a social gathering and record the process. At the end a digital booklet and a short video of all countries participating in this challenge will be made to be shared. Project Area: Cultural exchange, Fellowship, Promoting diversity, Sustainability, Supporting locally grown vegetables and spices, and Advocating for healthy home-grown food. The project is initiated by Rotary Club of Seef Bahrain with the support of Rotary and Rotaract District 2452. Below are the project partners from each country: Lebanon: Rotary Club of Metn Gate Bahrain: Rotary Club of Seef Bahrain UAE: Rotary Club of Jumeirah Armenia: Rotary Club of Yerevan Cosmopolitan Georgia: Rotary club Rustavi International with collaboration of 24

It’s Movember! Prostate Cancer What is it & How to Prevent it? By AG Joseph Chabenne Movember is an must be performed at annual event involving younger age ( 40 or 45 yo) the growing of in people at increased risk moustaches during the of cancer. month of November to raise awareness of It is performed with a men’s health issues, blood test the PSA level such as prostate and a clinical exam by the cancer, testicular specialist (the digit rectal cancer, and men’s suicide. It is a exam to palpate the prostate). portmanteau of the Australian-English diminutive word for moustache, “mo”, Treatment for prostate cancer depends and “November”. on the type and the stage of the cancer, Prostate cancer is the most common as well as the patient’s age, health cancer in males and the leading cause status and preferences.It can be of death by cancer after lung cancer. curative and radical or palliative in advanced stages. Age > 50 years , Race (African and Caribbean), family history, Diet ( fat++) It can be surgical or medical (hormonal and some genes are the common risk and chemotherapy) as it can be treated factors to develop this cancer. by radiation or a combination of all these treatments. Early stage cancers have almost no signs and that’s why it’s useful to do a Regular physical activity, staying at a screening before symptoms appear. healthy weight, and eating a diet high in vegetables and low in fat might help Screening begins at the age of 50 in the lower the risk of prostate cancer. general population at normal risk and 25

Printable coupons for this month 26

VOCATIONAL SERVICE & CONFERENCES 1- AWARENESS SESSION ON MALE PROSTATE DISEASES - LEBANON On the occasion of “Movember”, RC Zahle appreciation of Dr. Chabenne for his – Bekaa in collaboration with the Ksara continuous efforts in supporting the Ksara Healthcare Center organized an awareness Healthcare Center. Dr. Chabenne presented session related to prostate diseases. The the topic in a clear and informative way and session was presented by AG Dr. Joseph all attendees expressed their gratitude for Chabenne (Urologist). In the opening, Mrs. this initiative. The session was followed by a Magda Braidy Rizk welcomed P. Nada cocktail and coupons for free PSA level tests Sawan, the present Rotarians, and the were handed over to all attendees. attendees. She expressed her sincere 2- RC RAMALLAH RC Ramallah dedicated this month to Club, St. John Eye Hospital, and Al-Makkasad scoping potential activities and connecting Hospital. The club hosted Terje Thodeson with the community to identify needs for from RC Medlemsbilder Bekkelaget-Norway global grants and community service in planning for a future global grant and projects for 2023. The club hosted guest conducted numerous joint field visits were speakers and on-site meetings from various conducted in order to meet potential organizations including the Ramallah Youth beneficiaries. 27

Challenge of the Month: Go to the nearest Christmas Market wearing your Rotary/Rotaract Pin and send us a photo to [email protected] Subject : Newsletter / Challenge of the Month Recipe Chalet de Noël Ingredients * 2 ½ cups cake flour * ½ teaspoon salt * 1 Tablespoon baking powder * ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened * 1 ¾ cup granulated sugar * 3 large eggs + 2 additional egg whites * 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract * ¾ cup buttermilk Chocolate Frosting * 300 ml whipping cream * 300 g chocolate Decorations * Lady finger * Chocolate wafer * Whipped chocolate Cake sheet Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 350 degres F. 2. Grease and flour a 13×9 baking dish, or use baking spray (or use my homemade cake release). Set pan aside. 3. In a bowl, combine cake flour, salt, and baking powder with a whisk. Set aside. 4. In a large mixing bowl, beat room temperature butter with granulated sugar for about two minutes. Scrape… https://youtu.be/T9V81_DkUPw 28

Calendar Events for the Rotarian Year 2022-2023 December 2022 April 2022 Friday 2nd Monday 10th Zone Institute RC Aley Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE Host meeting: Maternal and Child Saturday 3rd May 2023 Zone Institute Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE Thursday 11th District 2452 Conference Sunday 4th Zone Institute Friday 12th Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE District 2452 Conference January 2023 Saturday 13th District 2452 Conference Sunday 8th RC Zgharta-Zawie: Sunday 14th Planting trees District 2452 Conference Locations: Schools in Majdlya, Zgharta, Kfarzina and Karem Sadde Saturday 27th Rotary Intl Convention Tuesday 17th Location: Melbourne, Australia RC Zahle Capitol: Competition in Arabic language Sunday 28th Location: Zahle Maalka and Taanayel Rotary Intl Convention Municipality Location: Melbourne, Australia March 2023 Monday 29th Rotary Intl Convention Monday 20th Location: Melbourne, Australia RC Aley Mother’s Day Celebrity Tuesday 30th Rotary Intl Convention Location: Melbourne, Australia Wednesday 31st Rotary Intl Convention Location: Melbourne, Australia 29

WHO TALKED BEHIND YOUR BACK? Ali El Aina He is new to the Rotary Foundation, but he has given so much. He is honest, loving, generous, loves to gather everyone around him, loves his work and always dreams of the best. Because it is better to write these words about him. Souad Assaf Every time I see my Rotary club succeeding, growing or bonding, I remember you. For starting our club, leading it as our founding President and standing by us in every challenge and celebration. More than our founding President, you are our backbone and the leader we look up to the most. Past President Soud Assaf, thank you. For making a timeless impact. For setting the example that we all aspire to follow. PP Faisal Juma An inspirational member of Rotary club of Salmaniya how has shown dedicated and played a major roles involving in social projects and been a part of key seminars around the Rotary Clubs of Bahrain , even attending many Rotary international and District conferences gaining the knowledge and exchange experience , his interaction has lead many new members to understand the goals and principles to be a true active given Rotarian . It’s not easy to locate the time and effort to be siocaly active but PP faisal has dedicated himself to link all aspects to do so to assist the clubs on joint projects and to spread awareness of what Rotary objectives. Dr Nadia AbdulHaq Rotary Club of Ramallah A very well educated. She is always taking a positive attitude and spare no effort to serve and give especially when it comes to Rotary. Dr. Nadia is humble and courteous with others as well. 30

WHO TALKED BEHIND YOUR BACK? DG George Azar A man of his word 10 years ago I made a study on how many more clubs Lebanon could or should have in the different cazas based on the population density, and on what Cyprus had (2,000 Rotarians for a population of 700,000) and Rotarian George Azar pledged to follow and apply this study if and when he becomes District Governor. I am very happy to see that he is applying what he pledged and we will surely see more Rotary and more Service in the weeks and months to come! Ahmad Husseini: An Endless Inspiration Ahmad was a Rotaractor when he went to USA as part of a Study Exchange program. He then joined Rotary where he kicked off his journey as a Rotarian Ever since, Ahmad has been a leader like no other ! He’s been dedicated and working endlessly since we’ve known him and has been contributing on all:club, country, District and Zone levels. We’ll be forever thankful to a man like Ahmad who’s been growing and lifting others up all at the same time. A walking , talking Rotary encyclopedia and a proactive member who’s always there to serve. Azmad: you raise the bar high, and we appreciate all your efforts ! PP Hania Kabariti The Protocol guru of Jordan! Hania is a knowledgeable Rotarian and an inspiring leader. She is a detailed and systematic person, a great planner and a dedicated executioner. For many, she is a role model and supporter in Rotary but beyond that, she’s also a loving, warm-hearted and kind person. 31